…Eswatini artist to sharpen her writing skills in Hollywood’s creative engine
By Gcwalisile Mhlabane (Intern)
MBABANE – Eswatini’s very own Dzeli The Poet is heading to one of the world’s biggest entertainment networks—Paramount Pictures, home of BET (Black Entertainment Television)—for a two-month internship that promises to take her artistry to new heights.
The multi-talented writer, performer, an The performing arts scene in Eswatini is set to take a major leap forward as the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) partners with Divine Artist Drama Lab to roll out nationwide training for aspiring actors.
The initiative, officially launched on June 11, 2025, at Molly’s House of Grill in Mbabane, will bring professional training in both theatre and film acting to all four regions of the country over a three-month period.
Born Dzeli Mdluli- Lekgowe is the founder of Divine Artist Drama Lab will be joining the BET writers’ room as part of a creative development programme, where she’ll gain hands-on experience in scripting for television and film. The internship, which kicks off in the coming weeks, places Dzeli at the heart of Hollywood’s storytelling powerhouse.
“This is a dream opportunity,” Dzeli shared. “I’m going to learn from some of the best in the business, sharpen my skills, and bring back new insights to grow our creative industry here at home.”
Her international leap is not just a personal win—it’s a victory for the local arts scene. Before jetting off, Dzeli announced a major collaboration between Divine Artist Drama Lab and the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) to provide acting training in theatre and film across all four regions of the country.
This initiative will run over three months and aims to empower aspiring actors directly in their communities. “We’re creating spaces for talent to thrive,” she said. “And everything I learn at Paramount, I’m bringing back to feed that vision.”
ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini praised the move, saying Dzeli’s journey reflects the new wave of global opportunity for Eswatini artists. “It’s inspiring to see one of our own enter global creative spaces while still uplifting others at home,” he said.
From Mbabane to Hollywood, Dzeli the Poet’s journey is a bold reminder that local talent can go global—and return stronger, ready to elevate the entire scene.
(Courtesy Pics)
